When You Eat Pineapple It Eats You Back

Pineapples contain a potent proteolytic enzyme called bromelain that can break down proteins on contact. When you bite into fresh pineapple, the bromelain begins digesting the proteins in your mouth cells, creating a tingling or stinging sensation on your tongue and cheeks. This is not just an acidic reaction but actual enzymatic digestion of your own tissue. The effect is temporary and harmless because your saliva contains protective enzymes and the bromelain is neutralized by your stomach acid once swallowed. Cooking pineapple destroys the enzyme, which is why canned or grilled pineapple does not cause the same sensation. Bromelain is actually used commercially as a meat tenderizer because of its protein-digesting properties.